Access Node Frame Structure Selection for Small Cell Load Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Telecommunication systems face efficiency issues due to excessive load on certain network portions, particularly during high data traffic, which can lead to suboptimal service quality for users.
Innovation Solution
The method involves determining the locations of small cells within an access node's signal area and selecting a frame structure for the access node to optimize communication with wireless devices, balancing load by adjusting the mix of uplink and downlink subframes in a time division duplex system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed frame structure is used for communication, then system complexity is reduced, but network efficiency deteriorates under high load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic frame structure selection by determining small cell locations and using them to select from multiple predefined frame structures (e.g., different TDD uplink-downlink configurations). This allows the system to adapt the frame structure dynamically based on small cell deployment scenarios, resolving the contradiction between fixed structure simplicity and adaptive efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes frame structure parameters (such as the number and position of uplink/downlink subframes) based on detected small cell locations. By selecting from multiple frame structure options with different parameter configurations, the system optimizes network efficiency for different small cell deployment scenarios while maintaining manageable complexity through predefined options.
2Reliability
If traffic is concentrated on certain network portions, then service quality for those portions is improved, but overall system load balance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by determining small cell locations and selecting frame structures specifically optimized for those local conditions. Different frame structures are chosen based on whether small cells are located at cell edges, centers, or other positions, allowing tailored optimization for each local scenario while contributing to overall system load balance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from small cell location determination to guide frame structure selection. By continuously detecting small cell positions and selecting appropriate frame structures based on this feedback, the system adapts to changing network conditions and maintains both service quality and load balance.
3Ease of operation
If small cell locations are not considered in frame structure selection, then system operation is simplified, but network performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by determining small cell locations in advance and selecting appropriate frame structures before data transmission begins. This advance preparation optimizes network performance for the specific small cell deployment scenario without adding complex real-time adjustments during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts frame structure selection based on small cell location information while maintaining operational simplicity through predefined frame structure options. The dynamic aspect is in the selection process rather than in complex real-time modifications, balancing ease of operation with performance optimization.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are described for scheduling transmissions between an access node and wireless devices. A location may be determined for a plurality of small cells within an access node signal area. Based on the determined locations, a frame structure may be selected for the access node used to communicate with a plurality of wireless devices. Data may then be communicated between the access node and a plurality of wireless devices based on the selected frame structure.